4-21-2024: Subject: Strong Opposition to House Bill 461 - Protecting Transparency in Government

April 21, 2024 

Senate and Governmental Affairs Committee 
900 North Third Street 
Baton Rouge, LA 70802 

Subject: Strong Opposition to House Bill 461 - Protecting Transparency in Government 

Dear Senator: 

Louisiana Landmarks Society wishes to express our deep concerns and strong opposition to House Bill 461, which would gravely undermine transparency and the public's right to access government records in Louisiana. We urge you to reject this harmful legislation. 

HB 461 will have detrimental effects on governmental accountability. Restrictions to Louisiana’s Public Records Law could create a system rife with delays, obfuscation, and an inability for the press and public to effectively provide oversight of government agencies and officials in Louisiana. They run counter to principles of open, ethical, and accountable governance that public records laws are meant to uphold – eroding public trust. 

Please stand as a champion for accountability and the public's right to access information. Please reject HB 461 and any other attempts to erode our public records laws. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

Sincerely, 

Sandra Stokes 
Chair of Advocacy